Reading: Reading for Detail (Complex Texts): B2 Lesson 3: Understanding Detailed Instructions and Explanations in Technical or Academic Contexts
CEFR Level: B2 (Upper Intermediate)
Target Reading Sub-skill: Reading for Detail (Complex Texts)
Specific Focus: Understanding Detailed Instructions and Explanations in Technical or Academic Contexts
What You Will Learn
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Identify the purpose and structure of detailed instructions (e.g., for a device or software).
- Identify the purpose and structure of explanations in technical or academic texts (e.g., how a process works).
- Understand and follow sequential steps, conditional statements (if...then), and warnings in instructions.
- Extract key definitions, cause-effect relationships, and process descriptions from explanations.
- Interpret information from simple diagrams or labels accompanying these texts.
Hello Cambodian Learners!
At the B2 level, you will encounter texts that give detailed instructions for using new technology, or explain complex ideas, perhaps related to your studies or work. For example, you might read instructions for using a new online learning platform for your English studies, or an explanation of how irrigation systems help farmers in areas like Battambang. Understanding these texts precisely is very important for success!
Reading Detailed Instructions and Explanations
Detailed Instructions tell you exactly how to do something, often step-by-step.
- Look for: Numbered or bulleted steps, imperative verbs (commands like "Connect...", "Select..."), diagrams with labels, warnings ("Caution: Do not...").
- Strategy: Read each step carefully. Visualize yourself doing the action. Pay attention to any conditions (e.g., "If the light is red, then wait.").
Technical or Academic Explanations describe how something works, or explain a concept or process.
- Look for: Definitions of key terms, descriptions of parts or stages, cause-and-effect relationships (e.g., "This happens because..."), signal words for processes (e.g., firstly, subsequently, finally).
- Strategy: Try to identify the main components or stages being explained. Pay attention to how ideas are linked. Underline or note key terms and their definitions.
Example: Click the text to hear it.
Using the "LearnSmart" App - Basic Setup
Example Question (Instructions): What is the first thing you must do according to these instructions?
Answer: Download the "LearnSmart" application.
Practice Time!
Activity 1: Understanding Instructions
Read the set of instructions below. Then answer the questions about specific steps or requirements.
Activity 2: Understanding an Explanation
Read the short explanation about a process. Then answer the questions about how it works or key details.
Quick Quiz!
Great Job!
Being able to understand detailed instructions and explanations is essential for many real-world tasks and for academic success. Keep practicing reading these types of texts carefully!